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1. Prepare the Chips
1.1. Peel and Cut the Potatoes:
Peel the potatoes and cut them into thick, even strips about 1 cm wide. Uniform sizes ensure even cooking.
1.2. Soak the Potatoes:
Place the cut potatoes in a large bowl and cover them with cold water. Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar to remove excess starch and prevent browning. Let them soak for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
1.3. Parboil the Chips:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Drain the soaked potatoes and boil them for 3-4 minutes. This step helps achieve that fluffy interior.
1.4. Dry the Chips:
Spread the parboiled chips on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Prepare the Fish Fingers
2.1. Cut the Fish:
Slice the fish fillets into finger-sized strips, about 10 cm long and 2 cm wide. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2.2. Make the Batter:
In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, pepper, and paprika. Gradually whisk in the sparkling water (and egg if using) until you have a smooth, thick batter. The carbonation in the sparkling water creates a light, crispy texture.
2.3. Heat the Oil:
Pour enough vegetable oil into a deep fryer or pot to cover the fish and chips. Heat to 180°C (350°F). Use a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
3. Fry the Chips
3.1. First Fry (Blanching):
Fry the chips in small batches at 160°C (320°F) for 3-4 minutes. They should be soft but not colored. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3.2. Second Fry (Crisping):
Increase the oil temperature to 190°C (375°F). Fry the chips again for 2-3 minutes or until golden and crispy. Drain and season with salt immediately.
4. Fry the Fish Fingers
4.1. Coat the Fish:
Dip each fish strip into the batter, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off.
4.2. Fry the Fish:
Carefully lower the battered fish fingers into the hot oil. Fry in small batches to prevent overcrowding. Cook for 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally, until the batter is golden and the fish is cooked through.
4.3. Drain:
Remove the fish fingers with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate.
5. Assemble and Serve
Arrange the fish fingers and chips on a large platter or individual plates. Garnish with lemon wedges and serve with tartar sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. A sprinkle of malt vinegar over the chips adds a traditional British touch.
Tips for Perfect Fish Fingers and Chips
- Keep Ingredients Cold:
For an ultra-crispy batter, ensure the sparkling water and egg (if used) are very cold. - Don’t Overcrowd the Fryer:
Frying too many pieces at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy food. - Season Immediately:
Add salt to the chips as soon as they come out of the fryer to enhance their flavor. - Dry Ingredients Thoroughly:
Patting the fish and potatoes dry ensures better adherence of the batter and crispier chips.
Variations
- Spiced Batter: Add chili powder, garlic powder, or cumin to the batter for a flavor twist.
- Sweet Potato Chips: Substitute russet potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory combo.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and baking powder for the batter.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~450
- Protein: ~20g
- Carbohydrates: ~50g
- Fat: ~20g
FAQs
Q: Can I bake instead of fry?
Yes, you can bake both the fish fingers and chips. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F), lightly oil a baking tray, and bake the fish and chips for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Conclusion
Battered fish fingers and homemade chips are a timeless classic that’s easy to make at home. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, this dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow this recipe, and you’ll enjoy the taste of a traditional fish-and-chips shop from the comfort of your kitchen.
What are your favorite twists to this classic recipe? Share your tips or serving ideas in the comments below!
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